Life in Denver: Cheesman Park
Cheesman Park is an often-forgotten Denver neighborhood. Snugly situated between Cap Hill and Congress Park, this 11-block area has its own character and charm. Read through to find out why we love it (and why you will, too).
Cheesman Park Boundaries:
Colfax Ave (North), York St (East), 8th Ave (South), Downing St (West)
A Quick History of Cheesman Park
Cheesman Park is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Denver, annexed all the way back in 1883. Development was slow to start, but with the completion of the neighborhood’s namesake park in 1915, the neighborhood grew into what it is today.
Back in the day, you’d see the city’s largest mansions owned by the wealthiest people. Then, in the 1930s, apartment buildings started to creep up around the neighborhood.
Today, you’ll find an urban character—both in population density and closeness to the central city amenities. And while the mansions of yore still exist, they’re mostly converted into apartments and condos.
But never fear: You can still snag a single-family home here in Cheesman if you’re looking to buy!
What the Locals Say About Cheesman Park
Cheesman Park might be small, but it’s mighty in vibe and amenities.
Great vibe. Lots to do, high walkability. Great park, coffee and ice cream shops, restaurants, etc. Tree-lined streets, some historical buildings. Feels safe. – Trulia user
In my area, there is a wide variety of shops. You can get everything you need just by walking a few blocks… By living and shopping in this area, you can get everything you need and support mom-and-pop shops! It’s the best of all possible scenarios. – Trulia user
Cheesman Park is a great neighborhood to live in. It’s central in Denver and you can get anywhere in a few minutes. Very friendly neighbors. Good neighborhood communication. Lots of families. – Trulia user
5 Reasons We Love Cheesman Park
#1 - Cheesman Park
This mostly residential neighborhood is named for the large park that occupies a sizable chunk of the area. Boasting a beautiful fountain, big pavilion, and gorgeous mountain views, everyone gathers at Cheesman Park for everyday picnics and fun scheduled events.
But perhaps the best part of Cheesman Park is its spooky history. Before becoming a park in the 1870s, the area was the designated city cemetery! And when the city started moving bodies to make room for the park’s new purpose, they may or may not have left thousands of bodies behind. Liiiiike, bones turn up from time to time.
This has led to plenty of ghostly stories—and even tours—throughout the park. So, whether you’re going for the daytime fun or the nighttime horrors, you’re bound to love Cheesman Park.
#2 - It’s LGBTQ+ friendly
Cheesman Park serves as the unofficial headquarters of Denver’s LGBTQ+ community. It’s where the pride parade begins every summer, and it’s the home to the LGBTQ Community Center of Colorado!
#3 - The Denver Botanic Gardens
Cheesman Park is also home to The Denver Botanic Gardens. Packed with arid, water, international, shady, and ornamental gardens, this beautiful attraction is for plant-lovers of every kind. In the summer, they also host other events like outdoor concerts. It’s definitely worth the small ticket price.
#4 - Walkability
Cheesman Park is wildly walkable. Most errands can be accomplished on foot, but there’s also plenty of access to public transportation.
The neighborhood is also super bikeable! In fact, Trulia rated Cheesman Park as a “biker’s paradise,” with flat terrain and excellent bike lanes throughout the neighborhood. Try ditching your car for an afternoon and see how you feel.
#5 - Food and drink galore
Calling all foodies! Cheesman Park has an excellent selection of food and bev. For your morning coffee fix, try Thump Coffee. For the sweet tooths out there, Voodoo Doughnut has an excellent selection of sweet fried treats from traditional flavors to the more unexpected. Or, if you’re more of an ice cream fiend, check out Liks Ice Cream, a community staple for more than 40 years.
Your main courses are also waiting for you in Cheesman Park. For Mexican sandwiches, try Tortas Grill. Or if you’re more into American fare and late-night eats, Pete’s Kitchen is sure to hit the spot. Follow it up with a swig at Squire Lounge or Lion’s Lair Lounge, and your night will be complete.
Ready to make your big move?
Cheesman Park is the perfect mix of residential life with all the big-city amenities just blocks away. We think you’ll love it! Book a Discovery Meeting today to chat all about your real estate goals.
Images courtesy of VooDoo Doughnuts and Cheeseman Park Facebook Pages